Walking through an ice tunnel in Alaska

Walking on the frozen waters leading up to the glacier, along the glacier face and into ice caves surrounding the area is not recommended and is highly dangerous; yet on any given day in the winter scores of visitors cross-country ski, hike, skate, walk their dogs, sled, photo and otherwise enjoy the atmosphere. Mendenhall Glacier visitor center personnel and search and rescue agencies do not encourage activities on the frozen surfaces near the glacier. If one does go onto the ice it is suggested they have a Coast Guard approved life vest or as near to a survival suit as possible, wool clothing, ice picks, cell phone, an itinerary, and a companion.